AN EVOCATIVE WINE CELLAR IN THE WEST COAST
Many people think that wine making is Europe’s exclusive prerogative – Italy’s and France’s in particular – not considering that many non-European countries – including the US, South America, South Africa and Australia, just to mention a few – produce and export great amounts of wine. In particular, the USA are third in global wine production, with an yearly turnover of 9 billion (figures from 2016).
COR Cellars – is a winery located on Old Highway 8, just outside out of Lyle, a small village facing the Columbia River Gorge, State of Washington – represents one of the many businesses in the North America’s wine industry.
The New York born Luke Bradford entrusted the Seattle-based goCstudio the recent renovation and refurbishment project of the wine cellar he founded in 2004.
The 5,200-square-foot space surrounds a protected exterior courtyard that becomes the heart of the project and welcomes visitors into the new tasting room. This latter represents the heart of the project, a central organizing system that protects workers and visitors alike from the sometimes harsh conditions of the natural environment.
To complete the courtyard on the east end, the design retains the location of the existing metal farm shed and repurposes this space into the new COR Cellars bottling facility.
Large glass bi-fold doors between the tasting room and courtyard create a direct connection between interior and exterior spaces. Key views and circulation routes are set up east/west through the building giving visitors glimpses of the vineyards beyond.
Skylights are located above the tasting room bar dropping light on the main hub of activity. The large masonry fireplace marks the center of the living room and offers an inviting space for gathering year round.
A rooftop terrace offers a unique perspective over the Columbia River and views out to Mount Hood beyond
A simple yet refined exterior palette with straightforward detailing and dark earth tones allows the building to rest comfortably in the Inside, the simple palette continues with lighter tones. White-washed walls and the clear coated hemlock ceilings reflect the natural light that enters the space presenting a welcoming atmosphere.
The southwest corner of the tasting room is designed to feel like a living room, encouraging visitors to relax, meet new and old friends, and enjoy the beautiful surrounding landscape.
